MLK 2026 Volunteer Workday at FDR Park

Join Fairmount Park Conservancy for a Volunteer Workday at FDR Park's Meadow Lake!
Monday, January 19 • 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Help us care for one of South Philadelphia's most unique natural spaces! Volunteers will work together to remove invasive species and litter around FDR Park's Meadow Lake. This effort prepares the site for Spring 2026 plantings of native trees and shrubs, which will support local wildlife and strengthen the park’s ecosystem. Your time and energy will make a lasting impact—thank you for being part of this important work!

This volunteer event is open to all ages and abilities, and no experience is necessary.

Parking & Meeting Location:
Please use the parking across from the Anna C. Verna Playground. Look for our green tent when you arrive.

Volunteer Project Options

Volunteers can choose from several projects, including:

• Planting preparation: removing invasive species

• Cutting vines

• Litter and trash cleanup

About FDR Park

FDR Park is a 348-acre estuary park in South Philadelphia, serving both local neighbors and visitors with active recreation areas and unique ecological habitats. Work at FDR Meadow Lake supports the FDR Park Plan—Philadelphia’s largest public-facing climate resilience investment—designed to expand access, restore natural systems, and build a more resilient future for all. 

Event Timeline

9:00 AM – Arrival & Registration
9:15 AM – Welcome Remarks, Project Overview & Safety Talk
9:30 AM – Projects Begin
10:00 AM – Group Photo
11:45 AM – Wrap Up & Gather Tools
11:55 AM – Closing Remarks
12:00 PM – Event Ends

Know Before You Go

• Wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting dirty.

• Closed-toe shoes are required (boots or sturdy sneakers preferred).

• Long pants and long sleeves are strongly recommended for protection.

• Bring a reusable water bottle—refill stations will be available.

• Gloves are required. We will provide them, but feel free to bring your own.

• Optional: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen.

PARKING/GETTING THERE: Use the parking lot across from the Anna C. Verna Playground. Look for our green tent when you arrive.

• Plenty of free parking is available in the park. 

• The park is easily accessible by the SEPTA Orange/Broad Street subway line, as well as Bus 17. 

• We recommend using the 20th Street bike lane to access the park via bicycle. 

**Please don’t leave valuables or anything visible in your vehicles.** 

INCLEMENT WEATHER PROTOCOL

• This workday will take place in light rain. In the event of heavy rain or other severe conditions, the workday will be canceled, and registrants will be notified.

QUESTIONS? Please reach out to eduenas@myphillypark.org

Looking for more ways to support our work? Play it forward for Philly parks! Fairmount Park Conservancy’s Fair Play Campaign is creating healthy park infrastructure, expanding people-centered programs, and preparing our organization for the future. Learn more and get involved at fairplayphilly.org!